| This research focuses on the application of agent-based modelling (ABM) for simulating pollutants from pig farming discharged into the catchments. The model was designed based on the data collected from Yen Dung district, Bac Giang province. Main methods consist of terrain analysis from digital elevation model (DEM) which was used to delineate the drainage basins where pollutants accumulated. Then we combined this map with land use map and statistical data for determining the distribution of pollutant discharged sources. Based on the pollution load coefficient prescribed by the Vietnam Environment Administration, the loads from all sources, including pig farming, were estimated for entire sub-basins within the district. The algorithms and parameters for the model were calibrated using survey data. After passing the calibration, the model was used to predict the spatial distribution of pollutant from pig farming according to the current context of the district. The results show that the pollutant load from pig farming accounts for a large proportion and creates a major pressure on the local environment. The pollutant from pig farming greatly influences the spatial distribution of pollutant loads across sub-basins. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the waste management at pig farms (households and farm) to ensure the effectiveness of the environmental protection for the communities. |
